May 2006

The thought of premature aging, combined with the threat of skin cancer, is enough to scare anyone into the shade. But, as the saying goes, everyone has their day in the sun. These are my favorite ways to bask in the light while warding off the rays.

Scala

These hats by Scala are washable, adjustable, packable and definitely wearable.The Harbor Shop in Sausalito has the best selection of colors. Wear the brim turned up or down, and add large sunglasses to look like an incognito movie star.

Colorescience

We all know we should wear sun block and reapply it every 2 hours, but…it’s messy, greasy and, so often, smells like Malibu rum. Sunforgettable (a powder sunblock) by Colorescience is invisible on, portable, mess-proof and waterproof.

Sun Guard

The standard white T-shirt has a sun protection factor (UPF in clothing) of 5. Think of Sun Guard as a little laundry magic. Add it when you wash your clothes and voilà! your gauzy summer wardrobe now has a UPF 30. Amazing!

Some of us swim fast, others swim pretty. Whether you’re Yana Klochkova or Esther Williams, there’s a sea of swimsuits to test out. Use a bronzer or light-deflecting lotion before swimsuit shopping to look sun kissed and ready for the season. After that, just add water when you want to be a modern mermaid.

Banana Republic

Fabric shortages during WWII created the bikini. In classic fashion irony, now that fabric is abundant, the bikini is the smallest it’s ever been. Keep it tasteful since you never know whose mother you might meet. A simple halter top and moderately cut leg looks good on everyone.

Spiegel

From Betty Grable to Farah Fawcett the power of the one piece has been proven time and again. The basic tank-styled suit is universally flattering. Or, live it up and go for maximum glamour in a shapely suit with rhinestone detailing.

TYR

Beach volley ball, frisbee, surfing, swimming…if those are part of ‘a day at the beach’ for you, you’ll need a suit that is sporty and stylish. Be sure to hop, skip and jump in your suit to make sure it stays in place.